These days, doing more with less is a consistent challenge for public institutions, and schools at all levels feel the pressure. NetApp has continued to support learning institutions across the United States by donating data solutions to help their networks to go further, faster. Since launching its Education Donation Program, in September 2011, NetApp (NASDAQ: NTAP), the leading network storage and data management provider, has donated products and services valued at a list price of more than $14 million to over 100 schools, including the Arizona State University; Chico State University; Prince George’s County Community College (MD); San Diego County Office of Education; the University of California, Berkeley; the University of California, Santa Barbara; the University of South Florida; and the Virginia Community College System. The program has also supported K–12 schools including the Santa Clara Unified School District, Lake Stevens School District, and Oregon City School District.

To cite just one example of the dozens of institutions that have benefited from NetApp’s donated storage solutions, cloud services are now a viable option for the University of California, Berkeley, despite severe budget constraints across the University of California system. Through the program, the school worked with NetApp to build a cloud storage system installed at both the Berkeley and San Diego campuses. This enabled all Berkeley users with cloud infrastructure to leverage IT as a service as a cost-effective option for disaster recovery.

"Our work with the University of California, Berkeley, and the other institutions involved with the Education Donation Program exemplifies NetApp’s dedication to our country’s education system and students,” said Regina Kunkle, vice president of State and Local Government and Higher Education (SLED), NetApp. “With so much pressure to do more with less, and to deliver new IT solutions and learning opportunities on shoestring budgets, our schools are put in a difficult position. NetApp is thrilled to be able to provide guidance and solutions to help schools achieve their goals. The Education Donation Program provides us with a great outlet to continue to support our education customers in their efforts to thrive under difficult conditions.”